This chapter introduces and puts in context the core themes of the book (Victimisation: Theory, Research and Policy): victimological perspective; research; victimisation and concern about crime; risk of crime; and victims, public policy and practice. The advances in victim-centred policy in the UK over the past four decades, and in particular within the global context are briefly discussed. Two points are identified as recurring themes around victims: the lack of coherent victims' policy and victims defined by their needs rather than their rights; and also that victims' experiences of the criminal justice system remains unfavourable.